The Impact of Nationalism Post-War of 1812

Overview

• Nationalism became a dominant political force after the War of 1812.
• Influenced economic, domestic, and foreign policies.
• Supported by Supreme Court decisions.
• Aided in building national pride and identity.

Objectives

• Analyze nationalism's effect on domestic policy.
• Describe its impact on foreign policy.
• Summarize the slavery struggle as the nation grew.

Nationalism and Domestic Policies

Era of Good Feelings

• Post-1817, a period known as the "era of good feelings" began.
• Democratic Republican Party dominated.
• James Monroe re-elected with minimal opposition.

Economic Policies

• Tariff of 1816: Protective tariff promoting industry growth.
• American System: Proposed by Henry Clay, included:
  • Protective tariffs.
  • Federal infrastructure improvements (roads, canals).
  • Reestablishment of a national bank for monetary control.

Supreme Court and Federal Power

• Chief Justice John Marshall strengthened federal government.
• Key cases:
  • Marbury v. Madison (1803): Established judicial review.
  • Dartmouth College v. Woodward (1819) & Fletcher v. Peck (1810): Limited state interference in contracts.
  • McCulloch v. Maryland (1819): Confirmed federal supremacy over state law.
  • Gibbons v. Ogden (1824): Defined federal power over interstate commerce.

Economic Panics

• U.S. economy prone to boom-and-bust cycles.
• Panics occurred in 1819, 1837, and 1857, resulting in widespread job losses.
• Blame often placed on banks, particularly the Bank of the United States.

Art and Literature

• American Renaissance in art and literature.
• Nationalistic themes celebrated American landscapes and potential.

Nationalism in Foreign Affairs

Expansion

• Adams-Onís Treaty (1819): U.S. acquired Florida from Spain.
• Shared Oregon territory with Britain post-1818.

Monroe Doctrine (1823)

• Asserted non-interference by Europe in American republics.
• Promised U.S. non-intervention in European affairs.
• Gained significance in late 19th and 20th centuries.

Slavery and Nationalism

Missouri Compromise (1820)

• Addressed regional balance between slave and free states.
• Missouri entered as a slave state; Maine as a free state.
• Drew a line for future admissions regarding slavery.
• Highlighted the growing North-South division over slavery.
  • Southern resentment and fear of northern interference.

Conclusion

• Nationalism post-War of 1812 shaped America's domestic and foreign policies.
• Supreme Court rulings reinforced federal power.
• Differences in regional policies, particularly on slavery, presented challenges.